Akumal & Yal-Ku Lagoon
Akumal
Akumal is 35kms from Playa del Carmen and is accessible by collectivo or car. The Akumal beach is the most popular destination in Akumal, that can be reached in 10 minutes from Akumal, by walk.
The Akumal beach is pristine, with clear waters and sand beaches. This is a peaceful resort from your busy lives, with plenty of lodging options available. You also have many restaurants on the coastline, that you could explore.
Another popular attraction here are also lagoons such as Cenote and Yal-ku which is a calm one, where you can go swimming and snorkelling. Who knows, you might be surrounded with stingrays and colorful fish here ;)
Sail in the Caribbean Seas
Carribean Seas
The turquoise blue waters and the white sand beaches make the Carribean Seas, and they are the ones that bring the charm to Playa del Carmen. You can go for a relaxing sail in the Caribbean waters, or go snorkeling and diving alongside the Mayan Reef.
The Mayan Reef is the second largest reef in the world, stretching over some 300 odd kilometres. In the Mayan Reef, marine life and limestone cenotes flourish. There are plenty of sailing excursions that can be booked from Playa del Carmen.
Tulum
Tulum
Tulum is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, a must-visit from Playa del Carmen. Besides the pretty white sand beaches of Tulum, there’s so much more to explore! One such place is the Mayan ruins. It’s made of limestone, and is a 784-metre wall that protects Tulum.
Not to forget the limestone cenotes that picturesque and affordable. You could go for snorkelling there, as they also have rented kits available. Grand Cenote and Cenote Calavera are two cenotes that I recommend. For shopping, you could check out Avenida Kukulkan.
Well, in Tulum you could either go out and explore, or just chill and spend a lazy day by the beaches. Paradise Beach has been my favorite as of yet.
You can easily get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum by bus or car.
Xpu-Ha
Xpu Há is a village and resort area, at 34 kms from Playa del Carmen. The village is popular for its eco-parks, beaches and cenotes. Some of the best cenotes in Xpu-Ha are the Cenote Tajma Ha, Cenote Cristalino and the Cenote Chikin Ha. Kantun-Chi is a notable eco-park that you shouldn’t miss visiting when in Xpu-Ha.
The beaches of Xpu-Ha are as crystal clear and pretty as the other beaches in the Caribbean seas. The Playa Beach Club is a good lodging option where you can rest up the weekend in beach chairs or hammocks, with some good food and drinks to accompany you.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a Mexican island, just 8 kms from Cancun. It is a little fishing village, that is a charming and relaxing weekend trip. You could rent a golf cart for touring the island, explore the streets of Isla Mujeres or just laze & daze in the beaches. Playa Norte is a popular beach in Isla.
If you are someone who would fancy swimming with Dolphins, Dolphin Discovery is where you should be visiting. They have the best rates and experiences. For water sports, Parque Garrafón promotes kayaking, zip lining, snorkeling and swimming.
Isla Mujeres is easily reachable from Cancun through ferry rides. You could also take a catamaran.
Xel-Ha
The Xel-Ha is a perfect one day trip from Playa del Carmen. It is an aquatic theme-park which is an amazing destination for a family trip with your kids. Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in the Riviera Maya.
Cliff Climb, also known as the Cliff of Courage, has been my absolute favorites. You climb up a cliff from where you dive into the refreshing waters again. Such fun! If you are the adventurous ones, try going to Trepachanga. You will have to cross a river with the help of ropes laid out in between. The victory is in making it across the river. As easy as it may sound, it requires a lot of strength and balance.
The Xel-Ha is surrounded by a jungle. You could go for treks, nature walks or just spend a good time in a hammock there.
You can get to Xel-Ha from Playa del Carmen by taxi, bus or car.
